Japan on course to choose female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist likens taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition originates inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
